What are the benefits of hiring air charter agent?

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Private Jet Travel

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At Stratos Jet Charters, we set the standard for excellence in business aviation.  As an on-demand air charter agency, we act on behalf of our clients to arrange private charter flights on the safest, most well-maintained aircraft, under the command of a highly experienced flight crew.  Our air charter agents can provide access to approximately 2,500 aircraft that have been pre-screened through the Stratos Jets’ Approved Vendor Program, the industry’s first and only air carrier due-diligence program.  

All of the aircraft in the Stratos Jets’ Approved Vendor Program have met with our stringent safety standards, in addition to the Part 135 requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration.  Because we do not own or operate any of these aircraft, we are able to source the best-positioned aircraft that can meet the individual demands of your itinerary.  By analyzing the demands of the charter market, we can readily identify the location of multiple aircraft that can accommodate your trip.  Our expert air charter agents can find the right aircraft for your flight, whether you need to travel on a tight schedule, relax in a comfortable cabin, or simply obtain the best, available price.

After ensuring your personal safety, our number goal is to create a seamless charter experience that surpasses any other in luxury and convenience.  In addition to a superior air charter service, we offer several concierge services to enhance the quality and efficiency of your charter flight.  Through Stratos Jets’ concierge services, we can offer a wide variety of luxury services from in-flight catering to ground transportation to on-board Wi-Fi.  We provide a highly-personalized charter service by paying close attention to every detail of your charter flight.  We can accommodate just about any request, and take great pride in our ability to meet the unique needs of our clients. 

In-Flight Catering 

No one can work on an empty stomach.  Having a meal onboard your aircraft allows you to focus on the priorities of your day, without the distraction of hunger.  Stratos Jets’ in-flight catering service accommodates a wide variety of tastes and special dietary needs.  With our in-flight catering service, you can choose from a suggested list of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, or you can create your own menu based on your preferences.  Our air charter agents can handle any size catering order, whether you need a light box lunch to hold you over, or a full four-course meal to impress your clients.  In addition, we can provide in-flight catering for any size of aircraft, from a small turboprop, to a large Boeing Business Jet, which is ideal for large group charter flights.  All of our caterers come highly-recommended by our concierge services staff, so we can always assure you of the quality and integrity of your meal.  

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, your charter experience shouldn’t be anything less than exceptional.  At Stratos Jets, we go above and beyond to ensure that your in-flight catering meets or exceeds your highest expectations.  Unlike other charter companies, we track the delivery of your catering order from start to end to ensure that your meal is ready and waiting for you when you board your private plane.  By taking advantage of Stratos Jets’ convenient in-flight catering service, you can maximize your time and efficiency, while sampling some of the finest gourmet cuisine in the world.

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At Stratos Jet Charters, we are committed to the education of consumers when it comes to private, on demand air charter services, and also aviation in general. In light of this commitment, we would like to better explain the various types of passenger and cargo air travel.

To begin with, Civil Aviation is one of two major categories of flying, representing all non-military aviation, both private and commercial. Most of the countries in the world are members of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and work together to establish common standards and recommended practices for civil aviation through this agency. Civil aviation includes two major categories:

General Aviation

General Aviation refers to all flights other than military and regularly scheduled airline and cargo flights, both private and commercial. The majority of the world’s air traffic falls into this category, and most of the world’s airports serve general aviation exclusively.

General aviation includes a wide range of flights, both commercial and non-commercial, such as air charter, private flying and flight training, police aircraft, air ambulance, aerial firefighting, and many other smaller categories.

In the United States, on demand jet charter services (also sometimes called “air taxi” services) are governed by Part 135 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR). As described by the FAR: “Part 135 – Operating Requirements: Commuter and On Demand Operations and Rules Governing Persons on Board Such Aircraft”.

Scheduled Air Transport

Scheduled air transport includes all passenger and cargo flights that operate on regularly scheduled routes. The larger, scheduled airlines and air carriers that operate in the U.S. as well as worldwide are governed by the FAR – Part 121. As described by the FAR: “Part 121 – Operating Requirements: Domestic, Flag, and Supplemental Operations”.

It is important to note that Part 135 and 121 do not distinguish between type of aircraft used, but rather the type of activity done with the aircraft.

In general, Part 121 is more stringent on most aspects of operation than Part 135, though it should be noted that when followed to the letter, as members of ACANA (Air Charter Association of North America) such as Stratos Jets ensure on every flight, the level of safety and efficient operation is quite high.

Commercial aviation is the part of civil aviation (both general aviation and scheduled air transport) that involves operating aircraft for hire to transport passengers or cargo. A flight may be operated for money only if it meets three criteria:
The pilot must hold a valid commercial pilot’s certificate
The aircraft must hold a valid commercial registration
The operator must hold a certificate or some other authorization for commercial operations

Part 135 and On Demand Charter

As you have heard us mention before, at Stratos Jets we have become increasingly aware of those charter brokers who are far more interested in making a one-time profit than in developing a lasting relationship or providing an honest, reliable on demand charter service.

These low-cost charter brokers can offer rock bottom prices by ignoring critical safety and maintenance regulations required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in Part 135 and the Department of Transportation (DOT). Consumers who fly with these brokers are likely to have negative experiences while flying privately, and will often choose not to utilize air charter services again, missing out on the many benefits afforded by private aviation.

Most Part 121 carriers offer “scheduled” travel services. Scheduled air travel consists of both large commercial airlines, and scheduled or “programmed” air charter services. This term applies to any regularly scheduled service, or “pre-planned programs” of flights, operating on a regular basis throughout a scheduling period.

Many (but not all) of Part 135 operators are categorized as “general air charter services” or “business aviation” providers. General air charter is utilized by individuals or groups as transport for personal, non-business-oriented needs, such as vacations or the need to conduct personal affairs in person.

Business aviation is defined as the sector of general aviation which concerns the operation or use of aircraft by companies for the “carriage of passengers or goods as an aid to the conduct of their business, and are piloted by individuals having, at a minimum, a valid commercial pilot license with an instrument rating”.
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Pros and Cons

Of course by their very nature – scheduled flights with commercial airlines or “programmed” private charter services give very little or zero flexibility in takeoff and arrival times right up front. This can create an automatic reduction in the value of the flight to you and your business or personal travel needs.

Similar to the issue of no flexibility in timing, scheduled and programmed flights also result in no flexibility in the choice of aircraft either. Although this may not be a major concern when considering travel with the major commercial airlines, when utilizing private jet charter this can present a big issue, especially on longer flights.

Your level of comfort, value and convenience can sometimes be so low that the decision to avoid private charter or business aviation services can be made.

As for a potential drawback of general air charter or business aviation services, although not a common occurrence, is that regularly scheduled services are given higher priority for takeoff and landing than on demand flights, in the event of a conflict arising between the two.

Private jet charter offers numerous benefits to those traveling for either business or pleasure. Whether you’re in a rush to an important meeting or you’re simply arranging a large family trip, a private jet charter is an excellent way to go. Why?

Airport Flexibility

With on demand charter, you’re able to select your own airport. And with smaller aircraft, the options expand dramatically as to which airports are available to use. You can skip crowded airports far from your actual destination and arrive only minutes away at many smaller or municipal airports. Stratos Jets can also arrange ground transportation, saving you the trouble of renting a car or finding alternative transportation to your destination.

Higher Security and Privacy

As you are traveling with your own party, a corporate jet does not require hours of security checks and the uncertainty of not knowing others on your plane. The flight crews of all private jet charters are also highly trained and accountable. FAA Part 135 ensures all aircraft safety, regulations, maintenance, and pilot licensure. To provide the best service possible, private jet charters meet or exceed Part 135 requirements.

And even in first class, there is no true privacy on a commercial aircraft. But on a jet charter, your team can prepare presentations or discuss important deals without the risk of being overheard. Sit back in comfortable chairs that face each other over a convenient table and use your time in the air constructively.

Enhanced Productivity

Much of the time spent at airports and in the air is wasted. You can spend hours working your way through security check points and waiting on delayed flights at the terminal. Even on the ground you may find yourself stuck in a plane waiting on a runway to clear or a gate to become available. Private jets are able to skip most or all of these delays, saving you both precious time and dollars.

Group Charter Opportunities

If you’re traveling with a large group, private jet charter may be surprisingly inexpensive. By chartering a private jet, you can travel with as many friends or colleagues as will fit in the aircraft, and use the time onboard to visit, work or conduct meetings, or just rest comfortably – virtually impossible on a traditional commercial flight.
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When taken in total, on demand private jet charter can be far more effective and convenient than commercial travel, providing benefits that simply cannot be duplicated. At Stratos Jet Charters, we would be happy to answer any additional questions you may have, or provide you with a quote on your next trip, and we look forward to showing you the highest level of personal service, safety and convenience that you will find anywhere, with any air charter agency.

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  Orlando, Fla., June 16, 2011:  With the economic downturn still in effect, many air charter consumers are seeking low-cost options for private jet charter.  Stratos Jet Charters, Inc., a worldwide air charter agency, warned private jet travelers today that some charter brokerages are offering reduced pricing on charter flights by engaging in unfair, deceptive business practices.

        In a recent interview on air charter safety, Stratos Jet Charters’ president and founder, Joel Thomas, spoke out against charter brokers that engage in illegal charter flight activity, highlighting the value of working with Air Charter Association of North America (ACANA) members.  He says that unethical charter brokerages employ illegal charter operators and utilize unregistered aircraft.

     ACANA, a non-profit organization, was founded by several, leading air charter service providers, who recognized the need for industry-wide best practices and self-regulation in the air charter industry.  ACANA's mission is to enhance and foster the air charter industry by promoting best practices and professionalism, representing ACANA members' collective regulatory interests, and educating consumers about the benefits of private aviation.

      Stratos Jet Charters, a long-standing member of ACANA, has been intimately involved in the organization’s efforts to promote best practices and professionalism to other air charter service providers.  Like Stratos Jets, ACANA places an emphasis on consumer education, and seeks to become the leading source of information on air charter safety.

      “Basically, we want air charter consumers to understand why it is so important to work with ACANA members,” Thomas explained.  “Furthermore, we want air charter consumers to be able to identify the ‘warning signs’ of a deceptive, dishonest charter broker who may present aircraft that are not qualified to fly passengers under the FAR Part 135 regulations.”

      According to Thomas, who was elected president of ACANA in January, the need for a self-regulatory air charter organization is more important than ever, considering the escalating problem of charter brokers engaging in unfair business practices to undercut legitimate air carriers.  Thomas explained that some charter brokers can offer significantly-reduced pricing by violating FAA regulations and skirting ACANA best practices.

       Thomas warned consumers that charter brokers who engage in deceptive business practices do so at great risk to consumer safety.  On the other hand, ACANA members take every precaution to ensure the safety and legality of every charter flight, regardless of any additional expense.

      “When you work with a non-reputable charter broker, there is no guarantee that your aircraft is properly maintained or that your pilots have the necessary training or experience for your flight.  Nor do you have the necessary liability coverage in place.” Thomas said.  “Not only does this pose significant risk to your safety, it harms the industry as a whole by fostering an environment where unsafe, unregulated charter brokerages can flourish.”

      As ACANA continues to grow, Stratos Jets aims to be a model of ACANA standards for other charter brokerages in the industry.  In addition to persuading other charter brokerages and operators to adopt ACANA best practices, Stratos Jets implements these standards on each and every charter flight.

      Thomas went on to say that as other operators and brokerages continue to adopt ACANA standards, both the future of the industry and the safety of consumers will improve as a whole.

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       In recent air charter news, the European Business Aviation Administration (EBAA) has launched a campaign to curb illegal charter flight activity in Europe.  Stratos Jet Charters is a member of the prestigious Air Charter Association of North America (ACANA), which distinguishes our company as one of the finest and most reputable charter service providers in the private aviation industry.  As a member of ACANA, we believe it is our responsibility to help the EBAA promote safe and legal charter flight operations in North America.  In the following article, we would like to take this opportunity to discuss the issue of illegal charter flights, and the different ways you can protect yourself and your family from the threat of illegal charter operators.

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      In light of the recent economic recession, we understand that many aircraft owners are looking for ways to offset the high cost and expense of aircraft ownership, just as air charter consumers are searching for lower-cost options for private jet travel.  But, before you set out to book a “discounted” charter flight from a small brokerage firm or operator, consider this: what price would you pay to ensure your personal safety?

         Let’s assume that you were offered a stellar deal on your next charter flight by an unknown charter brokerage or operator.  Initially, you might be pleased to find the pricing to be much lower than that of several long-standing and reputable charter brokers.  Wouldn’t you be foolish not to go with the lowest-priced flight?  Well, what if we told you that the aircraft you will be flying in wasn’t inspected according to FAA regulations, or that the flight crew wasn’t type-rated to fly the aircraft?  What if we told you that your charter flight was illegal?

       The safety issues caused by illegal charter flights has long plagued the air charter industry.  According to the EBAA, a large number of air charter consumers unknowingly purchase illegal charter flights each year.  An “illegal charter flight” occurs when a Part 91 aircraft owner conducts a charter flight under the guise of a fully-licensed Part 135 aircraft operator.  Illegal charter flights pose significant safety risks to air charter consumers, which is why it is our goal to teach you about the possibility of illegal charter flight operations.  Keep in mind that the goal of this article is not to frighten you, but to help you identify the signs of an illegal charter flight and the ways you can protect yourself and your family. 

     Aircraft owners who conduct illegal charter flight operations do so at great expense to consumer safety.  Here’s why - illegal charter flights violate Part 135 Federal Aviation Administration Regulations (FARs), which specifically require aircraft operators to hold a “Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate.”  An air carrier certificate is only granted to aircraft operators that show “sufficient financial strength and compliance with other legal requirements, including proof of proper insurance coverage,” according to the National Business Aviation Administration (NBAA).  

        The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration requires aircraft operators to adhere to all Part 135 regulations, which spell out the necessary criteria for conducting a safe and legal operation.  Under these requirements, aircraft operators are subject to many regulations regarding  aircraft maintenance, flight crew experience, pilot training and insurance requirements.  Outright aircraft owners, on the other hand, adhere to a separate set of rules and regulations, known as Part 91 regulations, which are far less restictive than Part 135 regulations.  

       So what do the FARs have to do with air charter safety?  Well, everything.  First, you need to know that the FAA makes an important distinction between aircraft owners and aircraft operators.  As a rule, aircraft operators are held to much higher safety standards than owners because they are “certificate-holding entities,” rather than “self-interested parties.”   As such, aircraft operators must adhere to more rigorous operational and maintenance requirements.  In addition, aircraft operators are subject to routine audits, such as performance audits, flight reviews, pilot training and safety checks, to verify their compliance with FAA safety standards.  Meanwhile, aircraft owners are given more freedom to establish their own safety procedures and protocols. 

      Since certified aircraft operators adhere to much higher safety standards, they encumber the costs of maintaining their aircraft and flight crew at peak safety levels.  Oftentimes, these additional costs are factored into the price of your charter flight.  Illegal charter operators don’t operate in accordance with Part 135 regulations, which is why they can offer significantly lower pricing on charter flights.  Illegal charter operators create an un-level playing field and put consumer safety and confidence at risk.  Consider it an investment toward your safety when you work with a reputable charter broker or operator. 

      So, how do you know that your private charter is legal?  It’s not always easy to identify an illegal operator from a legitimate one.  The first step is to ask some basic questions about the aircraft operator.  Ask your charter broker for the operator’s certificate number or read up on the operator through the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) at http:///www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/.  This information will help to ensure that your charter operator meets with all the necessary criteria for conducting a safe charter flight.  If your charter broker is unable or unwilling to provide you with a copy of the operator’s air carrier certificate, it’s safe to assume that your charter flight is illegal.  Any legitimate charter broker or operator should be more than happy to provide you with a copy of the operator’s Part 135 certificate.  If you are asked to pay the pilots separately, this is a major red flag. 

       Next, ask your charter broker to provide you with a copy of the operator’s D085 (aircraft spec sheet).  This important document will list every aircraft that is approved for service in that operator’s fleet.  The aircraft listed on the D085 have been found by the FAA to meet with aircraft inspection, maintenance and insurance requirements.  You should receive the tail number of your charter aircraft at least 24 hours in advance of your flight.  Check to make sure that your aircraft’s specific tail number is listed on the D085 as apart of that operator’s fleet. 

      Now that you know how to identify a legal charter operator, the next step is to find a safe and legal operator to conduct your next charter flight.  The Stratos Jets’ Approved Vendor Program enables our company to work with the safest and most reputable charter operators in the air charter industry.  Through our approved vendor program, we do our due-diligence to ensure that your charter flight is safe and legal.  All of our approved vendors are fully-licensed Part 135 operators that adhere to FAR regulations, along with our own rigorous safety standards.  We keep updated records on all our approved vendors, and can easily provide you with a copy of the operator’s air carrier certificate, D085, and/or insurance standards upon request.  We won’t send you a quote on an aircraft that hasn’t been fully-vetted on the front end.  By working with Stratos Jets, you can rest assured that your charter flight meets or exceeds with the highest safety expectations in the industry.

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     As an air charter consumer, remember that you have a right to ask these important questions to ensure your personal safety on every charter flight.  If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact a Stratos Jets representative at any time.  Our air charter agents are both experienced and knowledgeable, and place a special emphasis on air charter safety.  Our goal is to help you find the safest and most well-maintained aircraft that can meet your personal travel needs for each and every flight. 

Contact Stratos Jets:

1.888.478.7286

info@stratosjets.com

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      In recent air charter news, Stratos Jet Charters announced that Joel Thomas, president and founder of Stratos Jets, was selected as the new President of the prestigious Air Charter Association of North America (ACANA).  ACANA, an elite, non-profit organization, is comprised of the finest and most well-respected air charter service providers in North America.  ACANA’s mission is to enhance and foster the air charter industry by promoting best practices and professionalism, representing ACANA members’ collective regulatory interests, and educating consumers about the benefits of private aviation. 

       Over the next few weeks, we at Stratos Jets would like to take the opportunity to explain the mission of ACANA and the role it plays in promoting a safer and better air charter experience for consumers.  In this week’s article, we would like to turn our attention to the first part of ACANA’s mission statement - promoting best practices and professionalism in the air charter industry.

     Part 1 of our weekly series outlining the first part of the mission and vision of ACANA: 

      As with any free-market industry, air charter consumers have a myriad of choices when it comes to selecting a private jet charter service provider to work with.  A private jet traveler looking to charter a jet from Los Angeles to New York, for example, will have little difficulty in receiving a price and an option for their trip.  Unfortunately, determining the safety and quality of the aircraft along with the reputation of the air carrier is a much different matter.  With so many private jet charter brokers and operators to choose from, how can you, as a consumer, really be certain that you are working with the safest, most reputable private jet charter service in the industry? 

        That’s where ACANA comes in.  As we mentioned earlier in this article, the founding principle of ACANA is to promote best practices and professionalism to air charter service providers in the industry.  The 19 members of ACANA adhere to the highest standards of ethics and integrity to accomplish their goal of promoting best practices and professionalism to other service providers in the industry.  As a result, air charter consumers who choose to work with ACANA members have the added advantage of knowing that their charter service provider has met with the highest standards of safety, integrity and excellence in the industry.

       At Stratos Jet Charters, we have furthered ACANA’s mission of promoting best practices and excellence by implementing the Stratos Jets’ Approved Vendor Program.  This program provides our clients with the same quality assurance they have come to expect from ACANA members.  The Approved Vendor Program is an invite-only organization that is comprised of the finest private aircraft and air carriers in the world.  Through our approved vendor network, we have access to the safest and most highly-maintained aircraft and in the industry.  Our approved vendors adhere to Federal Aviation Administration Part 135 and DOT regulations along with the safety requirements set forth by our company.  Our air charter agents utilize an ARG/US or Wyvern third-party safety audit to ensure that these safety requirements are met before inviting a vendor to join our exclusive network.

      By continuing to promote best practices and professionalism, Stratos Jet Charters and other ACANA members can continually provide consumers with the best charter flight service possible.  To learn more about Stratos Jets’ approved vendor program or to arrange a charter flight, please contact Stratos Jets at 1.888.478.7286.

Contact Stratos Jets:

1.888.478.7286

info@stratosjets.com

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     Here at Stratos Jet Charters, we often receive charter requests for light jets when the flight can easily be accomplished by a turboprop at a more cost-effective price.  Oftentimes, private jet travelers are unfamiliar with the advantages (and disadvantages) of a turboprop jet charter.  Other times, jet charter travelers are simply under the false impression that turboprops are less luxurious than light jet aircraft.  

      We, at Stratos Jet Charters, would like to take this opportunity to explain the key differences between the turboprop and the light jet so that you can make an informed decision for your next flight.  

     Although turboprops are not typically considered private jet aircraft, they still fall in the private jet category because they are powered by a turbine engine.  In reality, a turboprop aircraft is more like a cross between a piston prop airplane and a turbine engine jet.  In turboprop engines, a gas turbine uses gas power to drive a propeller and produce thrust (one of four reaction forces needed for flight), rather than relying on jet exhaust like turbofan engine aircraft.

      Turboprop aircraft were specifically designed to be the most efficient at low altitudes and slower speeds under 450 mph.  When turboprops are flown at the correct altitude and airspeed, they are extremely efficient and burn less fuel than most light jets, which in turn lowers the hourly rate of the aircraft.  This makes the turboprop jet charter a cost-effective and attractive solution for same-day round trip charter flights under 500 nautical miles each way.  For example, a turboprop would be the most cost-effective solution for a charter flight from Miami to Nassau.

      Another major advantage of turboprops for charter flights is that they have excellent short-field take off and landing capabilities.  Most turboprop aircraft have much shorter takeoff and landing distances than light jets, which means they have access to smaller, regional airports with shorter runways.  The average light or mid-sized jet requires at least 5,000 feet of runway to safely takeoff and land, while some turboprops can safely take off and land with as little as 3,000 feet of runway length.  This grants turboprops access to some of the country’s hardest-to reach airports.

     Although the turboprop is an efficient aircraft for short distance flights, it is not the most efficient and cost-effective aircraft for long-distance or high-speed charter flights.  In fact, everything the turboprop stands for – performance, short-field takeoff, and fuel efficiency – goes right out the window when the aircraft nears supersonic speeds.  And since turboprops cruise at slower airspeeds, they do not have the same range capabilities of light jets.  If you need to travel a greater distance or get to your destination quickly, a light or mid-sized category aircraft would be a better choice for your flight. 

     Another disadvantage of the turboprop aircraft is that they typically can’t climb higher than 30,000 feet.  As we’ve mentioned in past articles, altitude can play a significant role in the quality of your air charter experience.  It may seem trivial, but the flight level of your aircraft can actually affect the amount of turbulence and inclement weather conditions you may encounter during your flight.  If you would prefer to avoid “bumpy” airspace, a mid-size aircraft would be the most appropriate aircraft for your flight. 

     As far as luxury goes, turboprop cabins are just as luxurious and as comfortable as most light jets.  In fact, there are several turboprop aircraft in our approved aircraft network that are considered among the safest and most luxurious aircraft in the world.  If you need further proof, just ask your Stratos Jets air charter agent to provide interior photos of turboprop aircraft.  

      Whether you choose to charter a turboprop or light jet for your next flight, always remember to work with your Stratos Jets air charter agent to find the most appropriate aircraft that can meet the specific needs of your flight. 

Contact Stratos Jets:

1.888.478.7286

info@stratosjets.com

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Making the decision between owning your own private aircraft or utilizing a private jet charter service is one of the most difficult and important decisions you will ever make.  When considering the advantages of both business models, it can be difficult to determine which option will afford you with the most safety and security for your investment.  Having a working knowledge of both FAR Part 91 and Part 135 regulations, however, could help you make the right decision for you and your company.

New entrants to the private aviation industry may not be familiar with the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) for both general aviation and private jet charter operations.  The FARs, established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), govern all aircraft operations in the United States.  The FARs were designed to promote aviation safety and protect passengers from unnecessary risk.  Under the FARs, aircraft operations conducted by privately-owned aircraft are governed by FAR Part 91 regulations, while “air taxi” or private jet charter operations are governed by FAR Part 135 regulations.

When consulting your FAR Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), it can be difficult to identify the differences between FAR Part 91 and Part 135 regulations.  As a rule, FAR Part 135 (air charter) aircraft maintenance and safety requirements are far stricter than Part 91 (private) regulations because aircraft operators fly “for compensation or hire.”  Part 135 regulations were designed to establish a standard for professionalism, safety and best practices in the air charter industry.  These regulations govern pilot training and experience, aircraft maintenance, safety procedures and insurance requirements.

Under the more lenient Part 91 section of the FAR/AIM, private aircraft are subject to less rigorous maintenance standards.  Under Part 91, aircraft owners are only required to establish an “inspection program” for their aircraft, which can be typically accomplished through an “annual” inspection.  Annual inspections evaluate the airworthiness of private aircraft by evaluating the inspection intervals, parts replacement and life-limited components of private aircraft.   Conversely, Part 135 aircraft operators are required to establish a more rigorous maintenance program (such as the 100-hour inspection) for their charter aircraft.  This inspection requires aircraft operators to inspect their aircraft every 100 hours and continually provide assurance of the safety and integrity of their private aircraft.

In addition to more frequent maintenance requirements, Part 135 charter aircraft are also subject to certain runway length and weather reporting restrictions.  Every private jet aircraft has certain runway length limitations referred to as takeoff and landing distances.  These distances vary based on the size and weight of your aircraft.  While Part 91 aircraft can utilize any airport that meets with their own runway length requirements, Part 135 aircraft can only utilize airports where they can land within the first 80 percent of the runway.  In addition, Part 135 charter aircraft can only conduct instrument approaches into airports with on-site weather reporting facilities, while Part 91 aircraft can conduct instrument procedures into any airport.

Although Part 135 regulations may seem more restrictive, it’s important to understand that these regulations were designed to ensure your personal safety on jet charter flights.  The stricter maintenance requirements of Part 135 help to ensure that charter flights are conducted on the safest and most highly-maintained private jet aircraft in the industry.   In addition, Part 135 runway length requirements prevent charter operators from utilizing potentially unsafe airports with short runways.  Part 135 weather reporting restrictions make certain that your air charter pilots obtain the necessary weather information before attempting an instrument approach procedure into any airport.

At Stratos Jet Charters, we understand the risks of combining cursory flight operations with “laid-back” maintenance programs.  A few weeks ago, we heard the story of the Piper Seminole crash that took the lives of four, young Part 91 pilots.  If you haven’t heard the story, four Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) pilots were departing from the Palm Beach Airport, when they lost power in their left engine just after takeoff.  The pilots were not able to react quickly enough, and the aircraft crashed into the Palm Beach International Airport.  Although the NTSB has yet to release the official report of the crash, it is most probable that the aircraft crashed as a result of engine failure.

Accidents like the Piper Seminole crash are perfect examples of why you should work with experienced air charter agents to find fully-licensed Part 135 aircraft for your private jet flights.  Part 135 regulations have helped establish a level of consistency that can prevent accidents like these from happening.  The enhanced safety requirements for Part 135 flights provides passengers with the assurance of a safe and well-maintained aircraft.  By choosing to utilize a private jet charter service, you and your company can acquire the most safety and security for your investment.

Contact Stratos Jets:

1.888.478.7286

info@stratosjets.com

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Orlando, Fla., Oct. 5, 2010: Stratos Jet Charters, Inc., a worldwide air charter agency, announced today that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has added New York's Republic Airport (FRG) to its list of "gateway airports" approved for jet charter service to the Ronald Reagan National Washington Airport (DCA). Stratos Jets can now provide direct air charter service from the New York City metropolitan area to Ronald Reagan DCA airport.  

Following the Sept.11 attacks, the TSA has greatly restricted private jet access to the Ronald Reagan DCA airport, which is located in the Downtown Washington D.C. area, near the White House and Capitol Building.  Currently, TSA requires all private jet aircraft to submit to security inspections at one of TSA's listed "gateway airports" prior to arrival at Ronald Reagan DCA airport.  

Previously, the only gateway airports in the New York area were the Teterboro Executive Airport (TEB) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Private jet charter flights to Washington, D.C. from non-gateway airports in New York such as White Plains (HPN) or LaGuardia (LGA) are required to utilize Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) in Chantilly, Virginia.

Stratos Jet Charters reported today that the TSA has added the Republic Airport (FRG), located in Farmingdale, New York, to its list of gateway airports under the DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP). The DASSP program seeks to grant certain private jets access to the Ronald Reagan airport. Through Stratos Jets' vendor relationship with the most reputable private jet operator in Farmingdale, Stratos Jets can provide non-stop jet charter service from New York to Washington, D.C. on 14 of the safest and most highly-maintained charter aircraft in the industry. 

According to Joel Thomas, president of Stratos Jet Charters, his air charter agency can arrange jet charter flights from New York City to Washington D.C. on a diverse line of charter aircraft, ranging from a King Air B200 turboprop to a Gulfstream IV charter jet. These charter aircraft have met with the strict and stringent safety requirements of the Stratos Jets Approved Vendor Program as well as Federal Aviation Administration and Department of Transportation regulations.

Thomas said that by connecting two of the most influential cities in America - New York and Washington - Stratos Jets can offer the most valuable travel service to politicians campaigning this election season. He explained that politicians and government officials on the campaign trail can save time and energy by chartering a private jet directly into DCA.  Stratos Jets also ensures that every charter flight to D.C. meets with the highest safety standards in the industry. 



Media Contact Information: 

Joel A. Thomas

1.888.478.7286

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Orlando, Florida; May 19, 2008: Stratos Jet Charters, Inc. announced today that it has developed several new relationships with luxury villa providers and boutique luxury hotels to begin offering luxury vacation packages to private jet charter travelers. Stratos Jets will start offering all-inclusive luxury vacation packages, including accommodations and airfare, starting May 19, 2008.

Stratos Jet Charters is excited about the opportunity to offer a wide range of luxury services, including private jet charter flights and luxury hotel packages, to its clients and thousands of private jet flyers worldwide. Stratos Jets, a leader in the air charter industry, has been recognized as one of the finest jet charter agencies for providing excellent private jet charter service.  Stratos Jets has teamed up with the finest group of luxury resort, villa and boutique hotels to offer the most valuable vacation packages.

Joel A. Thomas, president of Stratos Jet Charters said, "Air charter clients choose Stratos Jets over other companies because we provide excellent service. This goes beyond selecting the finest aircraft and ensuring seamless ground transportation. It is our job to completely arrange client travels so that they are free to do as they please."

Mr. Thomas went on to say that forming relationships with luxury hotels and villas has allowed his company to take control of a wider range of services.  The air charter vacation packages that Stratos Jet Charters now offers will be available through their website at www.stratosjets.com. Each month, Stratos Jets plans to feature a specific hotel or villa. These "featured air charter vacations" will include complimentary catering, along with a special gift for their clients. 

Stratos Jet Charters, Inc. believes that by taking responsibility for their clients' entire travel plans, their clients will experience the best service and best vacation in the private jet charter industry.

Media Contact Information: 

Joel A. Thomas

1.888.478.7286

www.stratosjets.com

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